Lee Daniels is bringing hip-hop and drama back to primetime television like never before.
His new series Empire is the talk of the town and everyone from TV critics to social media has been praising the hit FOX series as the next big thing. The show follows a hip-hop record label and the family that runs it, and stars Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson, along with a slew of other big names like Gabourey Sidibe.
If Empire being the number one new show for young adults and boasting an outstanding cast doesn’t convince you, here are 7 reasons why you should tune in every Wednesday at 9 p.m. on FOX:
1. Timbaland produced the show’s soundtrack.
Timbo has joined the Empire ensemble as songwriter and song producer for the series.
2. Lee Daniels is the creator.
Known for directing acclaimed films like The Butler and Precious, Daniels created the hip-hop soap opera for the network, and judging by his track record, this show is already worth your prime time.
3. Speaking of Precious, the fabulous Gabourey Sidibe also stars.
Gabby plays assistant to Terrence Howard’s character, and brings all the sass you can handle.
4. Oscar-nominated actors Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson join forces.
Who wouldn’t want to see those two together a decade after Hustle & Flow? Plus did we mention how obsessed we are (and you should be) with Taraji?
5. The show addresses homophobia head on.
Lee Daniels confirmed that he’s using Empire to “blow the lid” off of homophobia…stay tuned.
6. The guest stars are A-list.
Naomi Campbell and Courtney Love have already signed on for spots.
7. The show is based on a true story…kinda.
Although it’s fictitious, Lee Daniels has admitted that some of the characters are inspired by his own family. He told the Hollywood Reporter:
“[FOX] encouraged us to create these incredible characters who are based on real people, family members of mine. I think people will be surprised by the subject matter. They won’t know what to make of some of our situations.”
Again, Empire airs tonight at 9 p.m. Will you be watching?
PHOTO CREDIT: Splash, Getty
